United States – With more than 85 million tonnes of scrap consumed in furnaces last year, the US steel recycling rate achieved an all-time high of 92%, it has been reported by the Steel Recycling Institute (SRI), a unit of the American Iron and Steel Institute.
The figures for 2011 show an increase of nearly 10 million tonnes compared to 2010. This includes a record recycling rate for the packaging sector of 70.8%, representing more than 1.5 million tonnes of steel recycled. Meanwhile, the vehicle recycling rate came in at 94.5%; appliance recycling rates remained solid at 90% representing over 2.9 million tonnes of steel recycled; and the recycling rate for construction plates and beam was unchanged at 98%, with rebar recording a rate of 70%.
‘This high level of scrap consumption is a reflection of the North American steel industry’s commitment to conserving energy and natural resources,’ SRI’s Executive Director Gregory L. Crawford observes. ‘The use of steel in every-day products, including packaging, appliances, automotive and construction, ensures quality while also supporting product stewardship, knowing that these products are routinely recycled at the end of their use.’
Don't hesitate to contact us to share your input and ideas. Subscribe to the magazine or (free) newsletter.